By Otsile Kadiege

GWM South Africa recently invited us to the launch of the updated and renamed P-Series bakkie which is now known as the P300 which of course slots beneath the larger, more premium and feature-packed P500. New to the updated P300 is subtle yet notable exterior updates, a completely redesigned interior, new technologies and a new P500-sourced diesel engine with more power and torque.

What’s new outside?

The updated GWM P300 gets a bunch of exterior cosmetic updates which helps make the Chinese bakkie look modern and sporty. Standout exterior updates include a redesigned front grille surrounds finished in a dark grey coating, replacing the old chrome. The front bumper has also been tweaked to look a bit more sporty.

In profile, nothing much has changed apart from newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels (265/60 R18). At the rear, the tailgate now has large ‘GWM’ lettering embossed onto it. Like the old P-Series, the latter also features a nifty integrated steep for easy access in and out of the load bed.

New interior design with new tech

The interior of the P-Series is an already premium cabin but somehow GWM managed to make it much better. Hopping aboard the P300, we were greeted by a completely redesigned interior with a bunch on new technologies. Highlights include a much nicer redesigned dashboard , a P500-inspired multifunctional steering wheel, a new 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a new, user friendly 12.3-inch infotainment display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, a redesigned centre console with an ‘airplane-like’ gear lever, ambient lighting, a ventilated wireless charger, X3 USB ports and a small-sized sunroof.

Performance and launch drive impressions

Powering the P300 is a larger, more powerful 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine developing 135kW and 480Nm. It’s paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and is available with both 4WD and 2WD. It also boasts Level 2 semi-autonomy driving technology and an improved towing capacity of 3 500 kg (3 000 kg for 4×2).

After spending the day behind the wheel of the facelifted P300, we are thoroughly impressed by its new 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine. Its uprated power and torque figures makes a big difference in performance and it works in perfect unison with its automatic gearbox with perfect gear ratios. GWM also heeded to the call of improved throttle calibration, however it’s still a bit jerky in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

We look forward to spending more time with the P300 bakkie for a more comprehensive review.

What’s next for GWM SA?

GWM South Africa will soon launch the Tank 300 diesel which uses the very same turbo-diesel engine found in the P300 and P500. The automaker will also launch the 342kW and 762Nm plug-in hybrid Haval H6 GT with a claimed electric range of 180km. Another Haval model we will most likely see this year is the updated H6.

Pricing and warranty

P300 D-CAB 2.4TD LT 2WD – R599,900

P300 D-CAB 2.4TD LT 4WD – R649,900

P300 D-CAB 2.4TD LTD 4WD – R699,900

Every all-new P300 comes standard with GWM’s recently upgraded comprehensive and transferable vehicle warranty and service coverage, so you can focus on the road ahead with peace of mind:

7 Years / 200 000 km Warranty

7 Years of Unlimited Roadside Assistance

7 Years / 75 000 km Service Plan

12 Months / 15 000 km Service Intervals